Illinois utilities are set to invest more than a billion dollars into upgrading the state’s electric distribution grid, resulting in higher rates for customers around the state.

A consumer watchdog group is applauding rate hike reductions for two Illinois utilities, but said more work is needed. The Illinois Commerce Commission approved revised grid plans from Commonwealth Edison and Ameren,

The Illinois Commerce Commission on Thursday approved scaled-back plans submitted by Commonwealth Edison and Ameren Illinois, the electric utilities for northern and southern Illinois, respectively. The plans outline the next three years of infrastructure upgrades,